About this experience
Swim and snorkel in an area with the largest fish in the world — the whale shark — on this seasonal tour. Head out toward Isla Mujeres, Contoy, and Holbox by boat, where these gentle giants feed on plankton from May to September. You have the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancun or pick up on meeting point,
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
Cancun Whale Shark Tours Guide
Before booking Cancun Whale Shark Tours, discover the season, costs, and boat realities that can make your dream swim unforgettable—or something else entirely.
Private Whale Shark Tour From Cancun
A private whale shark tour from Cancun offers a boat reserved for your group during the reserve’s May 15 to September 17 season. Learn what private really means, the conservation rules, timing, accessibility questions, a
Small Group Whale Shark Tour From Cancun
Plan a small-group whale shark tour from Cancun with clear advice on season timing, group sizes, open-water snorkeling, wildlife rules, and questions to ask before booking.
What is included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Wet Suit
- Light lunch (ceviche)
- Government Fees
- Boat of 30 feet
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Not included
- Gratuities
- Photos and videos, upon request prior to tour (available for purchase)
Itinerary and highlights
The adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel. Your driver will transport you to Cancun. From there, you will take a boat ride to the waters surrounding Isla Mujeres, Contoy and Holbox. This is the area where whale sharks come to feed on plankton and where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Once you spot the whale sharks, you will get ready to swim in pairs, accompanied by a guide. Your guide will instruct you on the best way to swim nearby the whale sharks.
The trip ends with a light meal of delicious, fresh ceviche prepared right before your eyes. Then you will return to the port to board the transportation back to the hotels.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- All hotels in Cancún and Puerto Juarez, in some cases established meeting points , same case for Tulum Hotel zone, Meeting point at Supermarket Aki
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Trip To Mexico
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for children aged 9 and under
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- From May to September
- The size of boat 30 feets
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
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Traveller reviews and photos
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